Turning Light

Hidden in the city of Buenos Aires lies a green oasis called Velatropa, where being is more valuable than having. Ten years ago, a landfill was occupied by local activists who during the years turned it into a refuge full of native trees and bio constructions. The community aims to be an example of a lifestyle between urban and rural, reconnecting people in the city with the nature. 

On a regular basis, the community arranges interdisciplinary workshops, environmental education and festivals where the main activity is to plant trees together. The use of money is minimised with an intention to cultivate what one consumes and exchanging goods and knowledge. Placed on an occupied no man’s land, the community is in constant danger of eviction by the government and has peacefully resisted several violent attacks from the police and other people.

“Turning Light” investigates the life of the community from the inside out, from an angle that is unseen by most people. It reveals the true nature of the anarchists as vanguards of rebellion: instead of destroying, they are building something new.

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